Bangalore: Mystery surrounds the death of popular small-screen Kannada actress Hemashri in Bangalore, who was brought dead to the Baptist hospital by her husband, Janata Dal (Secular) leader Surendra Babu, four days back. While investigation into her death continues, her husband has been arrested.

Babu reportedly told the police that his 33-year-old wife became unwell in the car, but police say she had wounds on her body. Additional Commissioner Suneel Kumar said, "Surendra Babu has been arrested and taken into custody till October 19. Investigation is on to find out how this took place."

Hemashri had become a popular face on the small screen through soaps and TV shows. Her parents too haven't been able to give a clear picture about her death. Questions are now being raised whether Hemashri was forced into a marriage with a much older man, who was obsessed with her, for political gain. Police sources say they found a liquid in her stomach that resembled chloroform, which could mean that there was an attempt to render her unconscious.

TV artiste Rakesh said, "It's a lesson for those who want to marry their daughters off to rich persons. It's not only important that the man has money, but he should be capable of taking care of your daughter." The post-mortem has turned inconclusive. However, a forensic report later this week could help unravel the case.